The May Fair Hotel London: Reviews, Location, and Guide

The May Fair Hotel, a five-star landmark on Stratton Street, has anchored the Mayfair district since 1927, when it was inspected by King George V. Now part of the Radisson Collection, the property combines nearly a century of hospitality heritage with contemporary luxury amenities, offering itself as a notable choice for travellers seeking a central London stay with historic gravitas. This guide reviews the hotel’s verified features, ownership, and location, drawing on official sources and guest feedback.

Last checked: 2026-07-16

Hotel Name: The May Fair Hotel (A Radisson Collection Hotel) · Address: Stratton Street, London W1J 8LT · Star Rating: 5-star · Rooms: 400+ rooms, 37 suites

Is Mayfair a good place to stay in London?

Mayfair ranks among London’s most desirable neighbourhoods, known for its tree‑lined streets, high‑end boutiques, and proximity to major attractions. The area is bounded by Hyde Park, Green Park, and Piccadilly, placing it within walking distance of Buckingham Palace, the West End theatres, and Oxford Street. The May Fair Hotel’s own location on Stratton Street puts guests in the centre of this affluent district, with Green Park station a short stroll away.

Mayfair’s location and attractions

Shepherd Market, a historic shopping and dining enclave, is a five‑minute walk from the hotel. The area is also home to the Royal Academy of Arts, the Berkeley Square gardens, and numerous Michelin‑starred restaurants. According to TripAdvisor reviews, the central location is repeatedly cited as a primary advantage for both leisure and business travellers.

Safety and atmosphere

Mayfair is generally considered very safe for tourists, even at night, thanks to well‑lit streets, regular police patrols, and a high concentration of luxury hotels and residences. The presence of the Palm Beach Casino within The May Fair Hotel adds a lively evening atmosphere, but the hotel maintains separate entrances and security protocols. The neighbourhood’s reputation as a posh, low‑crime area is well established.

What is the luxury hotel in Mayfair London?

The May Fair Hotel is one of the district’s premier five‑star properties, operating continuously since 1927. It is part of the Radisson Collection, a global luxury brand, and is managed by Edwardian Hotels London. The hotel’s 404 air‑conditioned bedrooms include 37 suites, many with individually designed interiors and premium amenities such as Vispring mattresses, Italian marble bathrooms, and Noble Isle bath products.

The May Fair Hotel: A five‑star landmark

Guestrooms feature contemporary décor, Samsung Smart TVs with hundreds of channels, and complimentary high‑speed Wi‑Fi up to 150 Mbps. The higher‑category suites offer Sonos audio systems, freestanding bathtubs, and private terraces with city views. The hotel’s public spaces are equally notable: the lobby showcases furniture by Fendi and Baccarat chandeliers, while the May Fair Kitchen serves a fusion of Spanish, Italian, Peruvian, and Japanese sharing plates.

Other luxury options in Mayfair

Several other high‑end hotels compete in the area, including Claridge’s, The Connaught, and The Dorchester. However, The May Fair Hotel distinguishes itself with its integrated casino, 201‑seat private theatre, and one of the largest spa facilities in the neighbourhood. For a more intimate experience, The Mayfair Townhouse (covered later in this guide) offers a boutique alternative with a focus on organic food and sustainability.

Who owns The May Fair Hotel in London?

The May Fair Hotel is owned and operated by Edwardian Hotels London, a family‑run hospitality group that manages several luxury properties in the capital. The hotel is franchised under the Radisson Collection brand, which positions it as part of Radisson Hotel Group’s upper‑tier portfolio.

Current management and brand affiliation

The Radisson Collection affiliation was announced in 2019, with a press release describing the hotel as “a London icon.” The property retains its own identity under the “The May Fair” name, while benefiting from Radisson’s global distribution and loyalty programme. The day‑to‑day management remains with Edwardian Hotels London, which oversees the hotel’s 400+ staff and its extensive amenities.

Is Mayfair a posh area in London?

Mayfair is widely regarded as one of London’s most prestigious and expensive neighbourhoods. Its historic townhouses, exclusive shops, and high concentration of private members’ clubs contribute to its upscale character. The area’s real estate consistently ranks among the highest in the city, and it is home to numerous celebrities, business leaders, and royalty.

What makes Mayfair a posh neighbourhood

The district’s origins date back to the 18th century, when it was developed as a fashionable residential area for the aristocracy. Today, it retains its elegant architecture and is home to luxury brands such as Burberry, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton, alongside fine dining establishments and art galleries. The presence of the Royal Academy and the Handel & Hendrix Museum adds cultural depth.

Celebrity residents and historic prestige

Notable current and former residents of Mayfair include actors, musicians, and business magnates, though specific names are often kept private. The area’s cachet is reinforced by institutions like the Dorchester Hotel and the exclusive Annabel’s nightclub. The May Fair Hotel itself has hosted numerous high‑profile guests, including Taylor Swift (according to public reports) and various film stars during premieres at its private theatre.

Location and getting there

The May Fair Hotel is located on Stratton Street, in the heart of Mayfair, postcode W1J 8LT. It is a short walk from Green Park tube station (Jubilee, Piccadilly, and Victoria lines) and within 15 minutes’ walk of Bond Street station for the Central line. The hotel is also easily accessible from Heathrow Airport via the Heathrow Express to Paddington and then a taxi or tube journey. For drivers, the hotel offers valet parking but does not have its own car park.

Alternatives in the area

For travellers who prefer a smaller, more boutique experience, The Mayfair Townhouse offers a distinct alternative. Located within a 10‑minute walk of Hyde Park and Buckingham Palace, this property emphasises organic food, plant‑covered walls, and a sustainability‑focused ethos. According to Hotels.com, the Townhouse sources at least 80% organic ingredients and offsets 10% of its carbon footprint annually.

Guest reviews on TripAdvisor note that the Townhouse’s rooms are clean and stylish but sometimes smaller than those at The May Fair Hotel, reflecting the boutique size trade‑off. The May Fair Hotel, by contrast, offers larger rooms, an on‑site casino, a private theatre, and a full‑service spa, making it better suited for travellers who want a wide range of amenities under one roof.

For a broader perspective on luxury stays in the area, consider Mayfairs best hotels for a comprehensive comparison.

Frequently asked questions

Sources cited

• The May Fair Hotel Factsheet (Edwardian Hotels London)
• Radisson Press Release – The May Fair Hotel Joins Radisson Collection
• The May Fair Hotel – Rooms
• The May Fair Hotel – About Us
• Radisson Hotels – The May Fair, Mayfair London
• VisitLondon – The May Fair Hotel
• Cvent – The May Fair Hotel, Mayfair London
• Hotels.com – The Mayfair Townhouse
• TripAdvisor – The May Fair, Mayfair London
• TripAdvisor – The Mayfair Townhouse
• MapQuest – The May Fair Hotel listing